6 February 2025
Contents
- From the Secondary Years
- From the Primary Years
- Rite Of Welcome
- Opening Mass
- Exciting Partnership with PSV Eindhoven
- Music News
- Year 8's Mastering Drawing
- Inclusive Education Primary
- Year 11 Physics
- Year 12 PE
- Cocurricular Program
- Work Experience - Australian Government (ASD)
- Hansen Scholarship Program
- SPOC 2025 Charity Fun Run
- Homework Club
Welcome Back!
A warm welcome back to students and families for the 2025 school year, and in particular our Year 7 students and any other students and families who are new to the St Paul’s Community.
It has been pleasing to see all secondary students settle back into routine over the first two weeks, with a renewed sense of energy and excitement as we prepare to embrace the challenges of the year ahead.
This year’s college theme is ‘Striving for Excellence,’ and while excellence will look different for each individual student, there is no escaping that the pursuit of excellence requires hard work, dedication, resilience, an acceptance of failure as part of growth, and a genuine desire to go above and beyond to be the best possible version of oneself. It is also important to acknowledge that excellence is not only limited to academic performance, but can extend to attitude and application, commitment to a co-curricular activity, relationships with others, the wearing of uniform, attendance, and punctuality.
In creating an environment for ‘excellence’ to thrive, a consistent approach to classroom expectations with how students commence a lesson, how students apply themselves during a lesson, and how students conclude a lesson, are all part of a collaborative focus with staff and students as we begin the 2025 academic year.
As a community, we are committed to supporting your child’s pursuit for excellence and look forward to working together with students and families to ensure that each student achieves their full potential.
Meet the Home Group Teacher Evening
Next Tuesday 11 February is the Secondary Meet the Home Group Teacher Evening. As the first port of call, 3-way partnership between the Home Group Teacher, students, and families, is pivotal to support the holistic success of all students.
While subject teachers will change from year to year, the Home Group Teacher is a consistent staff member for the student and family to refer to throughout their child’s St Paul’s journey over a 3-year period, in conjunction with Leaders of House.
This evening provides an excellent opportunity for families to:
- Meet their child’s Home Group teacher
- Get a progress update on their child’s start to the school year
- Discuss any pastoral matters or upcoming key events
- Discuss a students’ Personalised Plan for Learning (PPL)
Families are encouraged to book a time to meet with their child’s Home Group Teacher via the link and that has been sent via SEQTA and email. Bookings close on Tuesday at 9:00am.
Please note that the evening runs from 2:00pm to 7:00pm, and therefore secondary students have an early dismissal time of 1:00pm on this day.
Secondary Reminders
As we begin another school year, I draw your attention to the following important information:
Uniform
Students should have now purchased a pair of black lace up leather school shoes (not sneakers), and in Term 2 students will be expected to have either the new St Pauls College PE jumper (coming soon) or existing PE jacket in place of the rugby jumper. For more specific information regarding uniform and personal presentation expectations, the St Paul’s Uniform and personal presentation policy can be found here.
Should families need to purchase additional items, Uniform Shop information and trading hours can be accessed here.
Parent Communication Processes
Parents are to notify the college of any student absences from school via the school absentee line on 8334 8334, SMS 0409 143 820, or email absentees@stpauls.sa.edu.au by 9:00am.
We ask that parents avoid sending a SEQTA message or email directly to Home Group Teachers, as it is our reception staff who need this information to accurately mark student absences. Should reception staff not receive this information directly, an SMS will be sent to parents to verify student absences, as per college procedure.
Any parent/student contact during school hours must occur via Student Services and not via parent/student mobile phones.
This is imperative as it:
- Safeguards the College’s duty of care.
- Supports compliance with the Student Mobile Device Policy, which can be found here.
Homework Club
Students and families are reminded that supervised Homework Club is available for students to attend from 3:20pm – 4:20pm from Monday – Thursday in the Resource Centre, for students from Years 5-12.
Anthony Farina - Head of Secondary
Dear Families,
As we settle into the new school year, it is heartening to see our students embracing their learning with enthusiasm and our community coming together with warmth and positivity. Just two weeks in, and already so much has happened!
One of the highlights of the last few weeks was the first Primary Years assembly, which was led independently by our Year 6 leaders. Their confidence, poise and strong leadership skills were on full display as they ran the assembly with professionalism and enthusiasm. Our staff found it truly inspiring to witness their ability to engage their peers, demonstrate initiative and set the tone for the year ahead. Their leadership is setting a high bar for striving for excellence, and we are incredibly proud of their efforts.
The positive energy and respectful behaviour of our students has been evident across the Primary Years. Whether in classrooms, the playground, or assemblies, students are demonstrating a commitment to our shared values, creating a harmonious and engaged learning environment. Their actions reflect a deep sense of responsibility and respect for one another, making for a wonderful start to the year.
Last Friday evening saw our beginning of year family picnic, a much-anticipated event that, despite the warm weather, was very well attended. Although I was unable to be there due to illness, I have heard wonderful feedback about the fantastic atmosphere. Families and staff took the opportunity to connect and enjoy each other’s company, reinforcing the strong sense of community that defines St Paul's College.
Another special occasion this week was the Rite of Welcome for our Reception children and their families. A beautiful liturgy was shared, marking the beginning of their educational journey with us. Each Reception student received a personal portrait and a dwarf mulberry plant, a touching symbol of growth, nurturing and care. Just as these young plants will be lovingly tended, so too, our Reception students will be supported and guided as they embark on their learning adventure. We are deeply grateful for the trust that families place in us, and we take this responsibility with great care and dedication.
As we look ahead, we are excited about the many creative, social, emotional and spiritual experiences that await us throughout the year. The positive start we have enjoyed, sets a strong foundation for a year filled with learning, growth and community spirit. Thank you to all our students, families and staff for your contributions in making the beginning of 2025 one of warmth, connection and excellence.
Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!
Until next fortnight. Take care.
Marianne Loftus - Head of Primary Years





On Wednesday morning, we were delighted to celebrate our Rite of Welcome Reception Liturgy, an important tradition that marks the beginning of a new chapter for our Reception children and their families at St Paul’s College. This liturgy is a meaningful way to welcome our newest members into the community, rooted in our Catholic faith and the Edmund Rice tradition.
The liturgy was an opportunity to celebrate each individual, as we came together to pray for and bless the children in our 2025 Reception cohort. Each child was presented with a mulberry plant, symbolising the growth and development they will experience not only in their academic lives but also in their social, emotional and faith development. Just as the mulberry plant will grow and flourish, so too will our Reception students as they embark on this new adventure. As a community, we pledge to walk alongside the children and their families, supporting them in all that they do.
We look forward to the journey ahead and the many wonderful moments of growth we will share as a community. May God bless our new Reception students and their families, and may they feel the love and support of the St Paul’s College community.
Miranda McGlaughlin - Religious Identity Leader – Primary Years
















On Friday the 31st of January we gathered as a whole school community to celebrate in mass together. This was a significant event as we are now the largest student cohort in the history of St Paul's College.
Our mass surrounded our college theme of 'Striving for Excellence' and was a significant event including the celebration of our new reception students, blessing our Year 12 students, acknowledging and celebrating 20 years of service for Mrs Jackie Getgood and Mr Paul Elliott, as well as the commissioning of our new College Principal, Patrick Harmer. Along with our staff and students, we were fortunate to welcome our national CEO for Edmund Rice Education Australia, Mr Chris Woolley, accompanied by Mr Chris Leadbetter, our Regional Director of Education - SA/WA/TAS.
As a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition, we thank Fr John Herd, who celebrated mass with us and all the staff and students who participated throughout the celebration. It was a fantastic event to signify the start of our 2025 school year and we wish all students every success throughout the year.
Carlo Librino - Director of Identity & Mission














We’re thrilled to announce a new connection with PSV Eindhoven, one of the Netherlands’ top football clubs, thanks to our partnership with Adelaide United!
This week, our soccer players had a fantastic opportunity to hear from PSV representatives, who shared insights into their world-class academy, player pathways, and development opportunities in Europe. It was an inspiring session that gave our students a glimpse into the professional football world.
We were also honoured to receive a PSV guernsey, as a token of our partnership with both Adelaide United and PSV. We can’t wait to see what the future holds, with more opportunities for our players to learn, grow, and chase their football dreams.
Stay tuned for more updates on this amazing collaboration!

Music Performance News
We are looking forward to another great year of music-making, rehearsals, and performances in 2025. Whether you're continuing your journey or just starting, there will be plenty of opportunities to develop your skills and musicianship. Beyond this, research highlights its many benefits. Dr. Anita Collins explains how learning music strengthens brain development, enhancing memory, problem-solving, and coordination. It also improves literacy, numeracy, and emotional resilience while fostering discipline and social skills. Music education is a powerful tool for lifelong growth—so come and be part of all that the Music Performance Department has to offer.
NEW Instrument Lessons – online sign up
Instrumental lessons are a great opportunity for students to develop musical skills in a one-on-one experience. Our professional instrumental teachers offer lessons for a range of instruments and all skill levels. If your child is interested in learning an instrument, we encourage you to sign up and be part of our music program. Please note the link to the form is here
Co-Curricular Music Opportunities
Being part of a music ensemble offers valuable musical, social, and personal benefits. It also improves musicianship, including timing, tuning, and expression. Beyond technical skills, it builds confidence and a sense of belonging, fostering friendships and collaboration.
St Paul’s College offer numerous ensembles in 2025:
Monday | 3:15-4:10pm | Senior Rock & Pop | Secondary School | Mr Oria |
Tuesday | 3:15-4:10pm | Stage Band | Secondary School | Mrs Marrie |
Tuesday | 3:15-4:10pm | Middle School Rock & Pop 2 | Secondary School | Mr Oria |
Wednesday | lunchtime | Vocal Ensemble | Secondary School | Ms Clapton |
Wednesday | 3:15-4:10pm | Senior Band | Secondary School | Mr Akin |
Wednesday | 3:15-4:10pm | Middle School Rock & Pop 1 | Secondary School | Mr Oria |
Thursday | lunchtime | Primary Band | Primary School | Mrs Crisp |
Thursday | 3:15-4:10pm | Middle School Girls Rock Band | Secondary School | Mrs Marrie |
Thursday | 3:15-4:10pm | Middle School Metal Band | Secondary School | Mr Oria |
Friday | After school | Musical | Secondary School | Mrs Marrie/Mr Oria |
Students participating in co-curricular ensembles are encouraged to sign up for instrumental music lessons to maximise the ensemble experience.
For further information regarding instrumental lessons, please contact Mr Oria, voria@stpauls.sa.edu.au and for co-curricular programs, Mrs Veronica Marrie vmarrie@stpauls.sa.edu.au
Mrs. Veronica Marrie - Music and Performance Coordinator
Year 8 Visual Art students have been learning shading techniques like hatching, cross-hatching, stippling, and blending. These skills help create depth, texture, and contrast in their drawings, making objects look more realistic. It’s great to see their confidence grow as they apply these techniques to their artwork.
Sarah Fedele - Leader of Learning The Arts











We are excited to share several upcoming events that celebrate inclusivity and promote awareness within our school community. These initiatives provide valuable opportunities to support our students, engage with important topics and strengthen our collective understanding of diverse experiences.
Feros Care – Monday, 24 March (Week 8, 2:00 – 4:00 PM)
The Feros Care Local Area Coordination Service will be available to support families with questions about the NDIS and connect them to broader community services. Families can meet with a Local Area Coordinator to:
- Link to mainstream and community services
- Learn about NDIS access and planning
- Understand how to use the MyPlace Participant Portal
- Navigate service agreements with providers
Bookings can be made through Elisa at Reception. If you believe this service could benefit your family, we encourage you to attend. Please see flyer here
NeuroFest (18–22 March, Week 8)
At St Paul’s College, we celebrate neurodiversity and recognise that every brain works uniquely. During Week 8, we will be hosting NeuroFest, a festival featuring engaging lunchtime activities outside the Mid-Year Reception Room. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to appreciate and celebrate the diverse ways individuals think and experience the world. Please see further details attached here
World Down Syndrome Day – Friday, 21 March
World Down Syndrome Day is observed annually on 21 March, symbolising the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome. To raise awareness, we encourage staff and students to wear bright, mismatched or colourful socks. When someone asks about your socks, it's a great opportunity to start a conversation about Down syndrome.
A special thank you to Cheryl, who will be incorporating this awareness into her Visual Art lessons. Students will be creating artwork to contribute to displays around the school, highlighting the importance of inclusion and understanding.
Inclusive Oak – Wednesday, 2 April (Week 10, 2:00 – 3:10 PM)
On World Autism Awareness Day, Paige from Inclusive Oak will be visiting St Paul’s College for a ‘come and chat’ session. Paige, the founder of Inclusive Oak, has worked in the disability sector for over 12 years and understands firsthand the challenges families face post-diagnosis.
She will be speaking with families of students diagnosed with Autism about the EmpowerHer membership, an NDIS-supported program offering:
- A supportive community for parents
- Opportunities to connect with others on similar journeys
- Personal growth and education resources
If your family could benefit from this session, we encourage you to attend and connect with Paige. Please see invitation here
We look forward to celebrating these important events together and continuing to fostering an inclusive school community.
Victoria Romeo - Inclusive Education Coordinator Primary Years
Year 11 physics students undertaking a motion practical to investigate the relationship between the travelled distance of a mass rolling down an inclinded plane and the time of travel.















The St Paul’s Old Scholars Football Club, in partnership with The Next Step Australia, is hosting a Fun Run to raise funds and awareness for men’s mental health.
They would love your support—whether by participating in the run or making a donation to this important cause.
Date: Sunday, 2nd March
Entry Fee: $20
Register or donate here
Every step makes a difference. Join them for a great event in support of men’s mental well-being!
Monday to Thursday, between 3.20pm and 4.20pm, students from Years 5 to 12 are welcome to attend Homework Club in the Resource Centre. Staffing for Week 3 and Week 4 will be:
Week 3
Monday - Robert Nak (Science, Business, Accounting)
Tuesday - Early dismissal
Wednesday - Paul Kemp (English, Business)
Thursday - Daniel Torode (Design & Tech, English, Geography, Media Arts) & Anthony Wyndham (English, Arts, History)
Week 4
Monday - Stash Domiszewski (Maths, English, PE)
Tuesday - Rachel Lynds (English) & Danielle Keynes (English)
Wednesday - Sam Martin (English, Drama)
Thursday - Walter Chatindiara (Geography, English, Accounting, Economics)
Upcoming Events
Parents and Friends Meeting
R-12 Meet Homegroup/class teacher - Early dismissal
Meet Homegroup/class teacher appointments available from 2 pm - 7 pm
Early dismissal for students at 1.10pm
Year 7 - 12 Academic Assembly (Class of 2024)
College Tour, Reception students 2027/2028
College Tour, Reception students 2027/2028
College Tour, Year 7 students 2027/2028

